Thick Hamburger Soup
A hearty, thick hamburger soup packed with ground meat, vegetables, and grains, perfect for comforting family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the ground meat in a 4-quart casserole dish.
- Microwave on High (100%) for 5 minutes, stirring twice during cooking.
- Add water, bouillon cubes, onions, carrots, chopped tomatoes, celery, salt, rice, and barley. Cover the dish.
- Microwave on High (100%) or simmer on the stove for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.
- Let the soup stand, covered, for 30 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the ground meat in a skillet before adding it to the casserole dish. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you prefer a heartier soup, add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Adjust the seasonings to your taste, and feel free to incorporate some herbs such as thyme or parsley for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Thick Hamburger Soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad to balance the meal. For an added crunch, consider serving it alongside some Red Flannel Pickles, which complement the flavors well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the soup thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Thick Hamburger Soup contains roughly 160 calories, with 7g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1411mg per serving (61% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the ground chuck or sirloin with other proteins like ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat you choose.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup stores well and can be made a day ahead. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
What can I add to make the soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce. These ingredients can enhance the flavor without overpowering the dish. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).